Chania

Much like Türkiye, I never imagined being on the island of Crete but it was an easy place to fall in love with. The landscape was rugged, the atmosphere was relaxed, and everyone we spoke with was so friendly. I truly wish we had been able to stay longer.

Since this was our shortest day in port and Crete has many beautiful beaches, I knew I wanted to spend the time swimming. My parents opted to stay on the cruise ship while my sisters and I had a lovely day at Kertos Beach.

Early morning in the port of Souda.

Jenny and Liz at Kertos Beach.

Myself, Jenny, and Liz.

Myself and Jenny. Photo by Liz Kasper.

Finally getting to swim in the Mediterranean.

Myself, Jenny, and Liz.

A paraglider floating over the beach.

Jenny, myself, and Liz.

Photo by Liz Kasper.

We stopped at Manos Restaurant for an incredible lunch right on the water.

The lovely street view.

Delicious bread and olive oil.

Our table full of tasty treats.

Our server actually surprised us with dessert on the house. An absolutely wonderful cake with a hint of citrus and the creamiest vanilla ice cream I have ever had.

Back at the port.

Some of the beautiful vistas as we sailed away from Crete.

Mom and dad enjoying the sunset.

Santorini

Our next destination was the stunning island of Santorini.

Early morning view of the city of Fira atop the cliffs.

The waters already busy with ferries.

Dad enjoying the view from our balcony with the city of Oia in the distance.

Mom and dad on the ferry.

For Santorini we had no plans and decided to just see where the day took us. Since we had to account for the extra time for traveling to and from our ship and up and down the mountain, our day was shorter than we anticipated. We stayed in Fira and didn’t venture too far. But honestly, the views were incredible no matter where you were.

The bell tower of the Candlemas Holy Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral.

Myself and mom.

Myself, dad, Jenny, Liz, and mom.

Lovely views of a hotel patio.

We decided to stop for lunch at Naoussa. The food was fantastic and view was breathtaking! 

The delicious Greek salad along with a mountain of garlic toast and tasty beet spread.

Crispy and creamy fried feta cheese.

Dad with his calamari. Ever since I was a kid my dad would take us on day trips to Tarpon Springs, a city famous for its Greek heritage. We would see the historic sponge docks, do a little shopping, and visit the Saint Michael Shrine. A highlight was my dad always ordering the calamari at one of the Greek restaurants. Now he got to enjoy it in the Greek Isles.

Liz and Jenny.

Photo by unknown.

Mom.

Mom and dad.

Mom and myself.

The line for the cable car back down was so long that we decided to walk the donkey trail. It was hot and the path was slippery from all the stones being worn smooth - but the views were astonishing!

Dad.

Myself and Jenny.

Photo by Liz Kasper.

Dad.

Dad and myself.

Jenny.

Back in the Old Port.

Myself, Jenny, and Liz.

Mom with her piña colada.

Sunset over the islands.

The full moon rising over Santorini as we sail away.